Corcovado National Park, Sirena & Caletas Reserve


This morning we arrived to a National Park considered by many scientists as the most important of Costa Rica. Corcovado is an icon of conservation not only for the history behind its creation, but because it is a sanctuary for many endangered species. The remoteness provides, to the native species, a safe place in which they can prosper.

Our morning landing was special for many reasons. The most important reason is that not many visitors are allowed to stop at Sirena Station. Part of that is because a lot of local knowledge is required to find a safe passage and here, onboard Sea Voyager, the Captain demonstrates his ability along with those of the other boatmen aboard.

While the sun was rising we arrived to a beach that showed its turbulent past. Some sections appeared like pages of a geological textbook, originating millions of years ago near what we know today as Galápagos.

During a walk later this morning, we saw crested guans; howler, white-faced, spider and squirrel monkeys; scarlet macaws flying by, great tinamou, and many tracks of tapirs and wild pigs.

After a full morning and part of early afternoon, we left Sirena with strong feelings, enchanted by the particular magic of this place and thankful for having had the chance to explore it.

After lunch, we repositioned our vessel farther north of the Osa Peninsula. On our route to Caletas, a solitary swimmer was heading our direction: an individual Humpback whale. After observing it for a while we proceed to the private reserve of Caletas. Some of us did a nature walk on the trails of the property, while others opted to enjoy a peaceful swim at the beach. Additionally, a few decided to go on a horseback ride. This event allowed us to explore a bit farther inland and see more of the way local people live in this area.

At the end of the day, we understood more about the impact Corcovado National Park has on the lifestyles of those who live around it.